Volunteer Denise Farnden and Eldercare The Lodge at Wayville have been named finalists for Aged and Community Services (SA/NT) Awards for Excellence.

Denise Farnden, who has been volunteering at Eldercare Cottage Grove in Woodcroft for four years, has been nominated for the Volunteer Award whilst The Lodge has been nominated for the Aged Living Design Award.

Ms Farnden said she was ‘very proud and humbled’ to be nominated as a finalist and highly valued residents’ appreciation for her work at Cottage Grove.

“I really feel a sense of satisfaction when I’ve accomplished goals I’ve set to benefit the residents - especially when it comes to fundraising,” said Ms Farnden.

“It’s empowering to raise money for the residents’ Lifestyle Program and see how residents use their new resources to enhance their quality of life.”

Eldercare Volunteer Program Manager Jen Dunkley, along with Cottage Grove’s Lifestyle and Volunteer Coordinator Sue Hakof, nominated Denise for being a ‘committed and versatile volunteer’.

“Denise donates up to 60 hours per month to Eldercare and has made an immeasurable contribution to the life of residents at Cottage Grove,” said Ms Dunkley.

“She uses her skills to assist staff and residents in positive and meaningful ways whether it be by visiting residents, reading the newspaper to those who live with visual impairments or fundraising for the residents’ Lifestyle Program.

“In all that she does, Denise is always willing to help and is a valued member of the Eldercare team.”

The Lodge at Wayville underwent a $15.2 million redevelopment which was completed in November last year and included the creation of brand new residential wing as well the interior refurbishment of the heritage building White House.

Eldercare Senior Project Manager Paul Shannahan, who oversaw the 18-month project, said being nominated for the Aged Living Design Award has ‘made all the hard work worthwhile’.

“To be nominated for this award is great recognition for the project team of a ‘job well done’ especially under the difficult circumstances of working within an operating residential aged care facility,” said Mr Shannahan.

“Our focus through the design, development and construction stages was to provide the best outcome for residents and staff.

“The free-flowing floor designs, high-quality interior finishes and variety of purpose-built spaces were all implemented to better support resident and staff wellbeing and have received high praise from visitors.”

The Lodge Site Operations Manager Louise Hanialakis said she had received a great deal of feedback from residents and families about the ‘positive and empowering’ changes to the site.

“Some new and innovative features that were added during the redevelopment include the day spa, café and gym,” said Ms Hanialakis.

“The day spa allows residents to relax in a calming environment while providing therapeutic treatment for pain management whilst the café gives residents the opportunity to socialise with friends and family.

“Our employees have also benefited from the redevelopment with office spaces and nurses’ stations strategically placed in each care area enabling key staff to be more accessible to residents and their loved ones.”

The Volunteer and Aged Living Design Awards will be announced at the Aged and Community Services (SA/NT) Awards for Excellence on Friday 23 June 2017 at the National Wine Centre in Adelaide.